on pins and needles

phrase

Definition of on pins and needlesnext
as in anxious
feeling or showing uncomfortable feelings of uncertainty We were all on pins and needles as we awaited the doctor's call.

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for on pins and needles
on edge
Phrase
  • The heightened presence combined with the absence of street lights on multiple blocks throughout the neighborhood − including the one where both shooting incidents occurred − has left Taylor on edge.
    — April Quevedo, jsonline.com, 11 Sep. 2026
  • But the prospect of pulling that off has at least one other LIV Golf creditor on edge.
    — Justin Birnbaum, Sportico.com, 9 Sep. 2026
Definition of on edge
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Browse Nearby Words

on one's toes
on pins and needles
on purpose
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“On pins and needles.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/on%20pins%20and%20needles. Accessed 14 Sep. 2026.

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